The world of gospel music has been shaped by countless legendary artists whose contributions have resonated across generations.

 

 

From powerful voices that could bring listeners to tears to tragic stories that left the music community in shock, these gospel legends have left

a profound impact on the industry.

 

Here are 20 gospel legends you might not have known passed away, each leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.

 

1. Jerry Butler

 

Jerry Butler, known as “The Iceman,” was a soul and gospel legend whose career spanned decades.

 

Born in 1939 in Sunflower, Mississippi, Butler began his music journey early in church.

 

 

He later gained fame as part of the Impressions, a group that greatly influenced soul music.

 

Sadly, Butler passed away on February 20th, 2025, at the age of 85 after battling Parkinson’s disease.

 

2. Roberta Flack

 

Roberta Flack, one of the most iconic voices in soul and gospel, passed away on February 24th, 2025, at the age of 88.

 

Born in 1937, she became famous for hits like “Killing Me Softly” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.”

 

 

Flack’s work earned her multiple Grammy Awards and international acclaim.

 

She remained a beloved figure despite her diagnosis of ALS, continuing to share her strength with fans.

 

3. Mandisa

 

Mandisa, a Grammy-winning Christian singer, passed away on April 18th, 2024, at the age of 47.

 

She was known for her powerful voice and uplifting music, especially after her time on American Idol.

 

 

Mandisa’s struggles with obesity and mental health were well known, but her music encouraged others to persevere.

 

 

4. Nancy Harmon

 

Nancy Harmon was a gospel music legend who dedicated over 60 years to sharing faith through song.

 

She passed away on December 13th, 2024, at the age of 85 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

 

 

Her songs like “The Blood Bought Church” and “I’ve Come Too Far to Look Back” impacted generations.

 

Harmon’s ministry and mentorship led over 1,700 young musicians to pursue their own dreams.

 

 

5. Bishop Rance Allen

 

Bishop Rance Allen, known for his powerful voice and energetic gospel performances, passed away on October 31st, 2020, at the age of 71.

 

He was a pioneer in modern gospel music, co-founding the Rance Allen Group.

 

 

His contributions to gospel music and his dedication to faith made him a beloved figure in the church.

 

 

6. LaShun Pace

 

LaShun Pace, known for her powerful voice, passed away on March 21st, 2022, at the age of 60.

 

 

She was a beloved gospel singer who, despite health struggles, continued to inspire through her music.

 

Her hit song “I Know I’ve Been Changed” remains a staple in gospel music.

 

 

 

7. S Maholo

 

S Maholo, a famous South African gospel singer, passed away on October 2nd, 2024, at the age of 65.

 

He was known for mixing traditional gospel with Township music, creating a unique sound that resonated with many.

 

His sudden death following a stroke during a pre-album launch tour raised concerns about the health care system in South Africa.

 

 

 

8. Andre Crouch

 

Andre Crouch, known as the father of modern gospel music, passed away on January 8th, 2015, at the age of 72.

 

 

 

He revolutionized gospel music by blending traditional hymns with contemporary styles.

 

His songs like “The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power” and “Soon and Very Soon” remain timeless classics.

 

 

 

9. Dr. Ethel Cathy Austin

 

Dr. Ethel Cathy Austin, West Virginia’s “First Lady of Gospel Music,” passed away on December 11th, 2024, at the age of 75.

 

 

 

She was a gospel pianist and singer who dedicated her life to preserving African American musical heritage.

 

She founded the Black Sacred Music Festival at West Virginia State University.

 

 

 

10. Dorothy Love Coates

 

Dorothy Love Coates, a gospel legend and civil rights activist, passed away on April 9th, 2002, at the age of 74.

 

 

Her powerful voice and dedication to faith inspired many, and her songs like “You Can’t Hurry God” remain deeply meaningful.

 

Coates was also a passionate advocate for civil rights, working with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

 

 

 

11. Gloria Spencer

 

Gloria Spencer, known for her incredible soprano voice, passed away on April 2nd, 1976, at the age of 39.

 

 

Despite facing challenges with her health, Spencer’s music touched many lives, and her influence on gospel music continues to be felt.

 

 

 

12. Houston

 

Houston, the mother of Whitney Houston and a well-known gospel singer, passed away on October 7th, 2014, at the age of 81.

 

 

She played a crucial role in shaping her daughter’s career while still inspiring many with her soulful voice.

 

 

 

13. Sam Moore

 

Sam Moore, best known for his hit songs “Soul Man” and “Hold On I’m Coming,” passed away on January 10th, 2025, at the age of 89.

 

He was part of the iconic duo Sam & Dave, influencing the soul and gospel music genres.

 

 

His music and performances left an indelible mark on the world of music.

 

 

 

14. Anthony Burer

 

Anthony Burer, a southern gospel pianist, passed away on February 22nd, 2006, at the age of 44.

 

 

Burer was known for his skill and deep faith, playing a pivotal role in the Gaither Homecoming series.

 

 

 

15. George Yon

 

George Yon, a legendary bass singer in Southern gospel music, passed away on April 11th, 2005, at the age of 75.

 

 

 

He was part of the Cathedral Quartet and one of the most respected figures in gospel music.

 

 

 

16. Glenn Payne

 

Glenn Payne, known for his powerful voice as the lead singer of the Cathedrals, passed away on October 15th, 1999, at the age of 72.

 

 

 

His music and faith continue to inspire gospel music fans to this day.

 

 

 

17. Danny Gaither

 

Danny Gaither, known for his smooth tenor voice, passed away on April 6th, 2001, at the age of 62.

 

He was a member of the Gaither Trio, and his contributions to gospel music left a lasting impact.

 

 

 

18. Dottie Rambo

 

Dottie Rambo, a gospel music legend, passed away on May 11th, 2008, at the age of 74.

 

Her songs like “We Shall Behold Him” became anthems of faith, and her legacy continues through her music.

 

 

 

19. Edwin Hawkins

 

Edwin Hawkins, known for his hit song “Oh Happy Day,” passed away on January 15th, 2018, at the age of 74.

 

His work in contemporary gospel music made a significant impact on the genre, and his music continues to inspire.

 

 

 

20. Jesse Dixon

 

Jesse Dixon, a gospel music legend, passed away on September 26th, 2011, at the age of 73.

 

He was known for his energetic performances and powerful songwriting, making a lasting impact on gospel music.

 

 

 

These gospel legends have shaped music and inspired countless individuals through their powerful voices, dedication, and faith.

 

Their legacy continues to live on in the hearts of their fans, proving that music and faith can endure beyond their time on earth.